Sunderland City Council is backing International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB) by raising the rainbow flag at the civic centre.
The Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor David Snowdon, joined in the efforts to show solidarity for sexual and gender diversity ahead of the day on Monday, May 17.
Landmarks including National Trust owned Penshaw Monument, Northern Spire bridge, Hylton Castle, Fulwell Mill and Keel Square and the white lighthouse at Seaburn will be lit up in rainbow colours on Sunday, May 16, in support of the day.
Councillor Snowdon, said: “It is wonderful to witness the Rainbow Flag flying prominently across the city and I feel that this year’s theme ‘Together, resisting, supporting, healing’ has particular resonance given the struggles that we have all faced over the last 18 months.
“Many of us have suffered from loneliness and isolation over the last year but it must be even more difficult if you are from the LGBT community in an unsupportive family environment from which you can’t escape.
“Sadly, intolerance does exist, and we must work together to ensure that everyone in our city feels and is safe.
“Nobody should have to put up with discrimination and intolerance.
“LGBT young people in particular are at high risk of intolerant attitudes and hostility, and in recent years, online bullying and hate speech has added to their plight.
“Collectively we must work to address these attitudes where they come to the fore and I would encourage anyone who is subject to hate speech to report it.”
IDAHO (International Day against Homophobia) was launched in 2004 and in 2009 became IDAHOT when transgender was added to recognise the different issues between sexual orientation and gender expression.
In 2015, biphobia was added to acknowledge the specific issues faced by bisexual people.
Anyone who has suffered violence or hostility because of their sexual orientation, gender identity (including Trans), race, disability, age, race or faith can call: (0191) 520 5550 confidentially.
Incidents can be reported to police in a non-emergency on 101 or 999 if someone is immediate danger.
